Caught by Surprise by Jen Turano is definitely a fun read, a historical romance incorporating mistaken identity, kidnapping, family interference and suspense. In fact we are kept guessing and never know quite what Temperance is going to get up to next! It is the third and last book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone.
I was given a free copy of the book by Bethany House publishers from NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I loved this book. It's funny, it's engaging, and it's exactly what you expect from Jen Turano: a topsy-turvy adventure with dynamic and entertaining characters, especially the older set. The Huxleys' elderly butler Mr. Barclay is just adorable. He dotes on Temperance, indulging her with trips to paint all over New York City. And he's surprisingly sassy for a butler! Not to mention a bit of a matchmaker...

If you like historical fiction full of swoon-worthy romance and characters who make you laugh, Jen Turano and Caught by Surprise are right up your alley. It's on shelves now, so what are you waiting for? : )

I loved, loved this book. I am recuperating from surgery and staying with a friend. Every time I laughed out loud, which I did often. my friend would ask what I was reading. Miss Temperance Flowerdew is on her way to work when a stranger suddenly grabs her off the street and sends her on a Chicago-bound train before she can figure out what happened. When Mr. Gilbert Cavendish follows the trail to Chicago he discovers that the woman is his good friend Temperance and soon they're seen alone together by a New York society matron, putting their reputations at risk. Gilbert is willing to propose marriage--except Temperance will have none of it. And thus begins the delightful story.

Temperance is a delightful character who does exactly what you do not expect. She is often impulsive and quirky and doing the unexpected. But those who know her love her. Gilbert makes list, charts and graphs before every decision. I have tried all through the book to grasp a picture of him, especially carrying a gun. I guess I didn't realize that was required in New York during Victorian times. Can two entirely different types of people ever come together? And what would it take to make it happen? You'll have to read Ms. Turano's book to find out if it can happen.

I have read many of Ms. Turano's books and enjoyed each and every one but I don't think I have laughed nearly as much as in this one. It is laugh out loud funny in parts but has a captivating story as the captors are revealed and the need for guns becomes apparent.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review. I was under no obligation to write a positive one.

Happily, amidst familiar faces from the “Apart from the Crowd” series, I excitedly joined the adventure of Caught by Surprise which kicked off immediately as Miss Temperance stages her great escape from a coffin! With Jen Turano’s usual light and witty writing, the story flies along with twists and turns in each chapter. The characters are delightful, I find this particular cast well-balanced, interesting and the sort with whom I’d like to have a cup of tea. Tastefully seasoned with Christian wisdom, the principles of love, forgiveness and persistence are beautifully illustrated. It’s fun, romantic and an all-round good book! Five out of five!

A fun read that flowed well. It started out with a great attention grabber- Temperance is kidnapped & nailed into a coffin. She handled it much better than I think I would have! I liked Temperance. She is positive, loyal, spontaneous, and just very likeable.
Gilbert, her lifelong friend, is quite the opposite of Temperance. But their friendship has held true over the years.
Overall I enjoyed the book. It *may* have been a little longer than necessary, but wasn't too bad. I didn't read the 1st 2 books in the series, and that might have been helpful. I feel like I missed out on knowing Temperance and Gilbert, and their growing relationship, better. 4 stars

One of the great things about a Jen Turano book is the smiles and laughs it elicits while reading. In Caught by Surprise, the third and final installment of the Apart from the Crowd series, Turano’s trademark humor is alive and well from the first pages to the last.

Temperance Flowerdew is a free spirit, independent woman with the heart on an artist. Gilbert Cavendish is a man who always has a plan…and a list..and sometimes a graph. Despite their childhood friendship, these two characters are complete opposites (and know the other’s tendencies well).

Mistaken identity, attempted murder, subterfuge from Temperance’s family, and plenty of unsolicited advice from Gilbert’s and Temperance’s friends make Caught by Surprise one of Turano’s best books yet.

In the midst of the humorous banter, the many matchmakers, and the hilarious attempts at romantic gestures, Temperance is grateful for the depths of her friendships as she discovers life’s joys and passions. There are some heart-tugging scenes in this book in between the laughter.

A friends-to-more, opposites-attract story that is a pure reading delight. If you have not yet had the pleasure of experiencing a book written by Turano, Caught by Surprise is proof positive of her God-given talent.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

I love reading anything by Jen Turano. No other author can make me laugh out loud like she does. I completely enjoy every moment I am lost in one of her books. Caught by Surprise took me on a fun and at times ridiculous journey and I couldn’t get enough. Temperance was a delight to get to know, and I wish I had a friend like her. The situations she constantly found her self in were unlike any other. This is the third book in the series, and I absolutely loved the other two as well. If you haven’t read them I can’t recommend them enough. That being said, you can also enjoy this book as a stand alone novel. This book follows Temperance and her childhood friend Gilbert as they try to discover who wants them gone for good.

Being kidnapped in broad daylight on the way to work was not how Temperance wanted to start her day. Not only was it painful, but it put a kink in her plans. Knowing she will be missed, she immediately starts planning her escape. Seeing Gilbert helps her state of mind and helps her return to the life she loves. Unfortunately danger seems to be following her everywhere, and Gilbert can’t help but want to protect her. Can they put their differences aside and discover who has Temperance in their sights? Or will they find something that is sure to change their lives forever?

I couldn’t put this book down. Turano just has a way with words that keeps me turning pages late into the night. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading Historical Romance. There is the perfect balance between romance, suspense, and comedy. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This is book three in Apart From the Crowd series, it is a stand alone book, however you will miss some great reading and lots of history of many of the characters in this book if you jump right into this one. You do not have to read previous books to understand what is going on in this one though.

The worst part about a series is waiting for the next one to come out..... I was so excited to finally get to read the story of Temperance. I love her character and the many paths her life has taken her. She has such a love for life and a quick tongue. The sparks between her and Gilbert are amazing. They are opposite in so many ways yet blend so well to be best of friends.

Jen Turano is one of my favorite historical, romance writers. I love the comedy, drama, mystery and spark in her writing. She makes it easy to follow along and get lost in her stories.

Caught By Surprise by Jen Turano is another absolutely delightful Christian historical offering. It is the third book in the Apart From The Crowd series but can be read as a stand-alone. I really enjoyed meeting up with familiar faces.
The book has an air of frivolity with much light hearted humor that has the reader smiling throughout. Botched attempts at kidnap are greeted with amusement by both the heroine, who is very much a modern miss, and the reader.
Women play a prominent role in the novel. Their outlook is philanthropic and forward thinking. A school is set up to improve the lot of young women. "You will attend school... because it'll give you a future." With education comes more choice and the possibility of breaking out of poverty.
Friendships begun in childhood continue. Marriage proposals abound, as do lists as to why marriage is such a good idea - much to the amusement of the characters and reader.
God is acknowledged to be working all things together for good - but we can only see this when we look backwards.
Grief is present in the novel. In our grief we may temporarily lose sight of God but it is important to find our way back to Him. "My relationship with God needs to be repaired... I'm ready to put the anger I've held for Him aside."
There is a wonderful mix of characters from gossiping aunts to jealous cousins to marriage arrangers to hearts of gold. The eclectic mix brings much amusement and joy to the reader.
I really loved Caught by Surprise. It warmed my heart and soul and amused my mind. I love all Jen Turano's books - always delightful and entertaining - perfect for any time of year.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

*** 4.5 stars***

Jen Turano is a master at creating stories with great plots, humor, eccentric characters, and romance. Oh my goodness, it was hard to put this book down!

From the moment that Temperance Flowerdew is kidnapped and awakens in a coffin, traveling by train, you know that you are in for a unique and amazing read. Temperance has a fantastic outlook on life and gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She is spontaneous, artistic, and a great friend.

Gilbert, her friend since childhood, is rigid, structured, and also a great friend. The two of them and their escapades kept me laughing. For two opposites, they really compliment each other.

If you love a book with a lot of humor, great message, mystery, romance, and eccentric characters.... pick this book up today! You may want to read the first two books in the series before this one. It shows the evolution of the characters and an amazing set of friends.

Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Chuckle, then roll on the floor and laugh. And then it's melt-your-heart tender - you really know where this character is coming from. You want to pray, give them a shoulder and cheer them on - both the girls and the guys. All are both strong and soft at the same time, on a faith filled journey. Hold your breath from laughter and hold your breath from danger. Oh and throw in a lot of romance. Wow another hit from Jen Turano! A fabulous continuation of the series and return to people you love. Hold your sides and get some oxygen.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher from the Baker Publishing Group, Bethany - Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

#CaughtBySurprise #NetGalley

This book was so entertaining and sassy right from the beginning. This I believe was a number three and was also the first one that I had read from this author. While there were other characters from the other two books in this one, it did nothing to diminish the books story or make me feel like I was missing something. There was mystery, intrigue, danger, friendship, charity, and love. This is a Christian novel, and while I mostly like the historical aspect of these novels the best, there was just the right touch of God in this novel, I loved it. The characters were quite endearing, and the author really knew how to weave a story with real emotion. I cannot wait to read more from this author.

I truly enjoyed the first twenty-eight chapters of Temperance Flowerdew's story from her kidnapping to finding those responsible for the threats on her life, from the difficulties of living with cousins who did not want her to the pursuit of her hand in marriage by someone who wanted her very much. I had anticipated the events that occurred early in chapter twenty-nine, but had been hoping the story wouldn't take that trite route. Then at the end of the chapter I found myself rolling my eyes. Although I actually would have embraced the end of chapter twenty-nine without the beginning. So, I chose to hold onto the wonderfulness, if that's even a word, of the first twenty-eight chapters and rewrite the ending in my head. Jen Turano provided me with some pretty fun characters to do that with, placed them in a delightful setting, and gave me twenty-eight great chapters to become involved in their lives. I thank her for that, and hope she doesn't mind my parting ways over the last couple of chapters.

I thank NetGalley and Bethany House for providing me with a copy of Caught By Surprise in exchange for an honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

After running into her childhood friend Gilbert Cavendish, Temperance Flowerdew has decided to throw off the meek, quiet, wallflower persona she adopted after her parents' death and loss of their fortune forced her into the station of unwanted familial obligation in the household of her relations. She quickly finds it a good thing that she has returned to her spirited self, as she is abducted off the streets on New York, stuffed into a coffin in a Pullman car, and taken to Chicago. While she manages to free herself of her captors, that's only the beginning of her adventures. She soon crosses paths with Gilbert, who was sent to Chicago to rescue the damsel in distress--only to find that the damsel he thought he was finding, Temperance's cousin Clementine--isn't there and that Clementine herself may have had a hand in the abduction gone awry.
When a society matron sees Gilbert and Temperance together, straight-laced, rule-loving Gilbert knows they must do the proper thing and wed--and he finds himself becoming more and more interested in marrying his friend. Free-spirited Temperance, however, rejects him time and again, insisting that the gossip will blow over, and that they're not suited for each other.
Back in New York, besides trying to convince Temperance to accept his suit, Gilbert also finds himself trying to protect her and himself as they are embroiled in mystery and mayhem that go far beyond a kidnapping attempt. As Gilbert throws aside some of his lists and rules and stuffiness, and even as he uses them, Temperance comes to see that maybe their differences aren't that great--and maybe those differences actually balance each other out.

Okay, how can you not love a book that has such gems as these:
"I don't think anyone in their right mind would consider what you've gone about as being even remotely close to a marriage proposal."

"You think she'd change her mind about marrying me if I got her a puppy?"
"How did you get that solution out of what I just said?"

"One would have thought you'd become less contrary with age, not more."
"I spent three years not being contrary at all. I'm simply trying to make up for lost time."

"And that right there," Gilbert began, "is why I'm thankful my mother never had any other children, especially daughters. They seem to turn scary as they age."

"I'm going to see to it that you acquire the love of your life, and I'll hear no argument about that from you, if you please."

"You [...] sit around talking about unmentionables?"
He nodded. "We also talk about romantic gestures."
"You've apparently not picked up many pointers about those."

Seriously, there are SO many spots where you'll be laughing so hard (actually, if you're the type to snort with laugh, I would advise reading this book in complete isolation in order to prevent anyone think you're crazy). This book was just tons of fun to read. There's never a dull moment; it moves quickly and is highly entertaining. I liked seeing the mystery element unfold nearly as much as I liked the romance (which is saying something because I don't do mysteries). My one quibble is that the characters, while they all have their distinct quirks and traits, tended to sound alike sometimes. All in all, though, this was so much fun to read, and I'm eagerly looking forward to more of Jen Turano's books.
I recommend reading this series in order so you can get a proper introduction to all the characters. There is a delightful cast of characters, and you don't want to miss out on any of them.

I read an ARC from the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book was just as good and hilarious as the previous two books in this series. I always get such a good laugh out of these books, and they make rainy or lazy days so much more entertaining.

I was surprised that this book actually had quite a bit of mystery to it, and I couldn’t quite figure it out. I found this completely engrossing and I enjoyed curling up with it and getting lost in the story.

I love how well faith and God’s timing were threaded into the story. It wasn’t overdone; instead it added so much depth to the story. This is a perfect book for the beach, a rainy day, or when you are in the mood to laugh a lot.

*I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.*

What an absolutely delightful book! Filled from cover to cover with humor, adventure, mystery, and romance. I loved Temperance, I think she was my favorite of the wallflowers, although I loved the others when I was reading their stories. The conclusion was a bit far-fetched, but that really didn't matter. I just enjoyed the entire ride.
Honestly, I'm not a big historical romance fan, it takes a stellar book to catch my fancy and this one did the trick. Overall a fun read--I definitely recommend reading the series in order so you understand the cast of characters and how they fit into the overall tale.

It is a well-known fact that when a Jen Turano book shows up on my kindle or in my mailbox I drop everything and hide away to read it and woe betide anyone who tries to take said book away from me. (Just kidding, mostly)

Oh, my goodness, Caught by Surprise is my new favorite! Temperance is one of my favorite characters in this series, she is determined to reclaim her former feisty self, and I think it is something I can relate to. As you get older, and life wears you down, you sometimes have to re-discover yourself and Temperance is on a quest to do just that, and of course, all sorts of things happen. A roller coaster ride would be boring compared to this adventure, and I could not put this book down. I was guessing all the way TO THE END. If you want pure entertainment set in this era, Jen Turano is your go-to author.

As for Gilbert, he quickly burrows his way into your heart, with his adorable lists.

This book has the perfect title, and you will see why when you read it. This book will have you laughing out loud, well, it had me doing so in the orthodontist office and I got some strange looks, but I did not care, I read on...giggling all the way.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NETGALLY, my opinions are my own

I love books by Jen Turano and this book lived up to my expectations. I received an advanced reader copy and it said that it was not a final copy. I do hope the final copy fixes the errors I found near the end of the book, maybe the last 10% needed more work on the grammar. With that being said, for the most part, the editing was very good.

The story was unique and fun. The storyline was original. The characters were full of life and multi-dimensional. The plot was well thought out and the story flowed well for the most part. I did skip a few paragraphs near the end where it felt like too much repetition, but just a few paragraphs and only once.

I think you will enjoy this story if you like clean, Christian but not preachy, historical romance novels. I asked for a copy of this book to read and review and was given a copy for that purpose.

Once again Jen Turano has created an enchanting story full of laughter and intrigue! Although the beginning was a bit of a slow start for me, as I hadn’t read the previous book in the series and was struggling to understand who the characters were, it picked up quickly. I loved the banter between the two main characters, and there were many wonderful supporting characters to enjoy as well. With the elements of attempted kidnapping and attempted murder, the story moved swiftly and had me whipping through each page, eager to find out what happened next. Never a dull moment in this book!

Miss Temperance Flowerdew has found herself in quite the predicament. Mistaken for her cousin, she is kidnapped by surprisingly amiable criminals and taken to a hotel in Chicago to await ransom. When the kidnappers realize they have made a mistake, they abandon her there, and in walks her childhood best friend, Gilbert Cavendish, to save the day. Befuddled at seeing her when he thought he was there to rescue her cousin, he changes course to get Temperance home safely. When they are discovered at the hotel alone together, Gilbert offers Temperance marriage, but Temperance isn’t going to bow to society standards without a fight. It will require a great deal of determination and patience on Gilbert’s part to convince Temperance that their friendship has grown to something much more precious – love.

The fact that both Temperance and Gilbert knew each other as children made this book a seeming comedy of errors. I loved how they each knew each other’s “tells”, and one could anticipate the other’s thought process before said thought had even been formed. Temperance poked fun at Gilbert with such matter-of-factness that I found myself laughing at the two of them, especially as Gilbert realized his feelings for Temperance were much stronger than he realized. The best part of his courtship was his list, “Reasons Why a Lady Would Want to Marry Gilbert Cavendish” – I actually had to set the book down, because I laughed so hard. In addition to his increasingly romantic courtship, Gilbert was supportive and protective of Temperance, but he also knew that she needed someone to be by her side, fighting with her, not for her. The two of them really were the perfect couple, and I think that made this book one of Jen Turano’s best to-date.

If you haven’t read a book by Jen Turano yet, you are missing out! Laughter, tears, and a lot of happy sighs are what can be expected during the reading of one of her stories. I highly encourage you to get one of her books and experience it for yourself!

A dragon puppy, a coffin abduction, a paint fight, and what more would convince you to read Jen Turano’s newest book, Caught by Surprise? Well, if you need more convincing here are the three top reasons I think you need to read Caught by Surprise as soon as possible.
The first reason is Jen Turano has a sense of humor that I have not read in most other books. I was laughing throughout the whole story. The whole plot is full of one comedic escapade after another which keeps the book moving and does not leave time for any boring parts!
The second reason is that the characters are quite loveable with all their peculiarities. They will probably bring to mind people you know who have the same peculiarities, although probably not quite as noticeable, and will have you laughing at their antics and their conversations.
The third reason is the fun surprises that add adventure, mystery and excitement to an already exhilarating book. Yes, I have to admit that I actually guessed that some of the surprises would happen, but I think I was more hoping they would than actually guessing they would. And even if there was a little bit of predictability in guessing that they might happen, it didn’t take away from the story because it just made everything how it should be in the end. And if that doesn’t make sense to you, please go read the story right now so it will. So, now you have three (actually six) wonderful reasons why you should read this book. What are you waiting for?
I would recommend this book to those who love comedy, and exciting but lighthearted stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.